To create a pottery ruffle bowl, follow these steps:
1. Start with a plastic template and a rolled slab of clay.
2. Compress your clay and cut out the clay around the template, using a clay knife.
You can read our previous blog post on wedging, compressing & rolling clay including using plastic templates and tools you can use for this project in how to make a pottery tumbler part 1-2.
3. Place the clay slab over a slump mould, using your fingers or use a tool to create opposite sets of ruffles to give the bowl its desired shape.
4. Use a moist foam mud tool to carefully clean up the edges and smooth the surface of the bowl.
5. Once the clay is cleaned up, proceed to create little feet for the bowl. Score the joins where the feet will be attached and apply slip to ensure a secure bond.
6. As we intend to apply some weaving designs to the bowl in the video, we use a little pottery tool to punch small holes in the top surface of the bowl. These holes will allow you to weave rope or apply intricate designs to the bowl’s surface, if so choose.
7. Allow the bowl to dry until it is firm enough to support its own weight. This step is crucial for preventing warping of your clay bowl (clay memory).
8. Remove the bowl from the mould and place it on its feet.
9. Next, clean up the inside of the bowl, taking care not to apply too much water as excessive moisture can cause the bowl to sink or deform.
10. Once the bowl is completely dry, proceed to bisque fire it.
11. After bisque firing your piece apply the desired glaze to the bowl, use a cotton bud to open your weaving holes once you apply glaze, taking care not to block the punched holes.
12. Glaze Fire the bowl in a kiln according to the specific instructions for the type of clay and glaze being used.
Remember, pottery making requires practice and experimentation. Don’t be afraid to explore different techniques and adapt the process to suit your creative vision.
Happy Potting to you! 😀
